I am purchasing a bearded dragon very soon, and would like to make sure I have everything I need for a happy and healthy little guy before I actually pick him up. If anyone could fill me in on a few things, that would be fantastic. I'll go over everything that I know of to make sure it's all right.
Tank:
I have a ten gallon tank, as the reptile specialist told me that I won't need to upgrade to a twenty gallon until they are a bit older. (The beardie I'm purchasing is just a little fella') In this tank, I have reptile carpet, a small tree-like structure, a log that's been hollowed out and cut in half, and a reptile net. I also purchased a backdrop, as I've heard it helps reduce stress, but I've heard this can go both ways, so if someone could let me know that'd be great. (As well as anything else I might need, or need to change)
Lighting:
I have a 26W UVB light by Repti-glo that is specifically designed for desert terrariums. If this is not the right light, please fill me in on what brand and wattage I should buy. I know I need a basking light, but wasn't sure which brand to buy considering there are a ton there, coming in lots of shapes and sizes, so I need some help there too. 100-100 or 105-115 for babies? I've read they need it a little hotter to digest food.
Feeding:
From what I understand, I am supposed to feed him 2-5 crickets twice per day on top of the veggies. I was also wondering if it is safe to gut-load a baby beardies crickets, as I've heard it makes them more susceptible to parasites? Also, is there a difference between calcium dust and gut loading? I think this is the part I need the most information on. I've read care sheet after care sheet, and all of them seem to be different. Specifics of what you feed your beardie would be great.
I want to give this little guy the best and healthiest life possible, so all responses are appreciated. If anyone needs more information, feel free to let me know, and I'll post a reply as soon as possible! Thanks so much!
Tank:
I have a ten gallon tank, as the reptile specialist told me that I won't need to upgrade to a twenty gallon until they are a bit older. (The beardie I'm purchasing is just a little fella') In this tank, I have reptile carpet, a small tree-like structure, a log that's been hollowed out and cut in half, and a reptile net. I also purchased a backdrop, as I've heard it helps reduce stress, but I've heard this can go both ways, so if someone could let me know that'd be great. (As well as anything else I might need, or need to change)
Lighting:
I have a 26W UVB light by Repti-glo that is specifically designed for desert terrariums. If this is not the right light, please fill me in on what brand and wattage I should buy. I know I need a basking light, but wasn't sure which brand to buy considering there are a ton there, coming in lots of shapes and sizes, so I need some help there too. 100-100 or 105-115 for babies? I've read they need it a little hotter to digest food.
Feeding:
From what I understand, I am supposed to feed him 2-5 crickets twice per day on top of the veggies. I was also wondering if it is safe to gut-load a baby beardies crickets, as I've heard it makes them more susceptible to parasites? Also, is there a difference between calcium dust and gut loading? I think this is the part I need the most information on. I've read care sheet after care sheet, and all of them seem to be different. Specifics of what you feed your beardie would be great.
I want to give this little guy the best and healthiest life possible, so all responses are appreciated. If anyone needs more information, feel free to let me know, and I'll post a reply as soon as possible! Thanks so much!